I love hearing about all of my wonderful client stories and business journeys, so make the effort of sharing their business on my blog every quarter! My very first Client Story of 2024 features Alison, founder and owner of Bespoke & Local.
I’ve worked with Alison for her launch, and together we’ve built a collection of gorgeous imagery to reflect her unique brand and promote her curated gift boxes. Bespoke and Local curates high-end gift boxes that celebrate local Devon artisans and it’s been an absolute pleasure to work with Alison on many shoots!
We’ve had a good old chat, with a look at the photos from our shoots together! Keep reading to find our interview and learn about why she started the business. – you’re not going to want to miss this one!
Hi Alison, why and when did you decide to start your incredible business?
For many years, I have sourced gifts for friends and family. I find great joy in discovering thoughtful gifts and supporting independent businesses. Following our move back to Devon and with such a wealth of talented artisans in the region, it was the perfect opportunity to focus on my true passions – supporting local business, artisan craft and design and bespoke gifting – and launch Bespoke + Local.
How many local businesses do you support with Bespoke and Local?
Bespoke + Local champions over 30 hugely talented Devon artisans. They are the core of Bespoke + Local and I am eternally grateful for their support too! Discover more about the artisans on our website, via our Instagram page and in our monthly newsletter.
Do you enjoy working as an independent business?
I love the flexibility working as an independent business provides my family. I love that I am continually learning and developing myself and my business. I love following my passions and supporting others through my business.
Tricky question… do you have a favourite gift in your boxes?
That is a tricky question! I am drawn to gifts that appeal to the senses – products that capture the eye, products that impact emotionally or are very tactile, gifts with gorgeous scents, and products that taste delicious. I love curating gifts with personalisation as they create such special and lasting memories.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Being a busy mum of two young boys, I juggle a lot! A typical day can include marketing activities, communicating with clients and prospects, curating and packaging gift boxes, accounting, and networking – all amongst the school and nursery runs and looking after my boys. Every day is different!
What do you love most about Devon?
Devon has always held a special place in my heart – it is where my family lives, where I attended university and got married! There is so much to enjoy and explore in the region – beautiful countryside, stunning coastline, and delicious food and drink, to name just a few of the things I love about Devon. I feel very lucky to live here!
What’s been a highlight in your business journey so far?
Being part of different special occasions and hearing the joy Bespoke + Local gift boxes bring has been a huge highlight. One recipient kindly shared, “Receiving a Bespoke + Local gift box was a wonderful experience! The presentation was beautiful and it was such a treat to unwrap each of the gifts, it was clear that a lot of thought had gone into choosing each one.” Every review and recommendation makes so much difference and means so much.
What does the next year hold for Bespoke and Local?
New for 2024! We are going behind the scenes with the artisans every Friday on Instagram. You will get to see some of their processes, learn about how they work, their thoughts and feelings about their work, where they draw their inspiration from, and discover the stories behind their products. I can’t wait to curate more Bespoke + Local luxury gift boxes and keep an eye out for some exciting new collaborations too!
You can find Alison on Instagram or get your own bespoke hamper from her online shop, featuring all of our photos from the shoot!
